2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Waterville, MN vs Rochester, MN

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Highlights
Are people in Rochester older or younger than people in Waterville?
- The Median Age in Rochester is 9.4 years younger than in Waterville.

Are housing costs cheaper in Rochester or Waterville?
- Rochester housing costs are 6.6% more expensive than Waterville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Rochester or Waterville?
- The average commute for residents of Rochester is 7.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Waterville.

Things to do in Waterville?
Waterville, MN is a small rural town located in the heart of Minnesota. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and its friendly people. It's the perfect place for those looking for a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by nature. The community is close-knit with strong roots that span generations of families who have remained in the area for decades. Residents value their privacy and take pride in their beautiful environment, which includes rolling hills, lush forests, lakes and rivers. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy year round such as fishing, hiking and biking trails, or simply taking a stroll along the riverfront park. There are also plenty of local stores and businesses to explore downtown. Watervillle is truly an idyllic place to call home!

Things to do in Rochester?
Rochester, Minnesota is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Midwest. Home to the renowned Mayo Clinic and University of Minnesota-Rochester, this city offers plenty to explore. From its variety of shopping options to its multitude of museums and cultural attractions, visitors can experience something unique. Visitors can also take advantage of the area's parks and trails for a breath of fresh air and connect with nature. Whether you're looking for an educational experience or a leisurely weekend getaway, Rochester has something for everyone!

 Waterville, MNRochester, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock119,732329,725,481
 Median Income$72,829  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$273,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.89  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Waterville    0 Reviews

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Reviews for Rochester    31 Reviews

Roch (and Minnesota) is a great place IF you live off the govt dole; subsidize undesirable things (through generous welfare benefits, lax law enforcement and sentences,  More

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Rochester is very vanilla. As a progressive, this place is not good. The area leans conservative and you'll see Trump signs everywhere... so that tells you the type of  More

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Over 6 years ago

I moved here over 20 years ago from California and I was in shock for the first couple of years that people actually lived in such a cold climate! Winter starts around  More

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